Plants Vs Zombies turns 16 in its latest anniversary

Plants vs Zombies celebrates its 16th anniversary this year—and remarkably, the franchise is still thriving. The beloved mobile series has become a cultural touchstone in gaming, and fans continue to follow its journey with enthusiasm. As we reflect on its legacy, it's clear that PvZ not only defined a generation of mobile gamers but also helped shape the tower defense genre as we know it today.

Looking back at our reviews of the iconic mobile titles, it's easy to see why Plants vs Zombies captured hearts across platforms. From its quirky charm to its addictive gameplay loop, the series built a loyal following. Now, with Plants vs Zombies 3: Welcome to Zomburbia still in soft launch and undergoing significant updates, anticipation for a full release remains high. Fans are eager for a return to the roots of the original game while embracing fresh innovations like a new art style and modernized mechanics.

The journey began in 2009 when PopCap Games launched the first Plants vs Zombies title on PC. Its charming aesthetic and clever level design quickly made it a hit. But it was the 2010 mobile adaptation—paired with the rise of free-to-play monetization—that truly catapulted the franchise into mainstream success.

In 2012, EA acquired PopCap, marking a turning point for the series. Despite internal shifts and a stronger focus on mobile that led to restructuring, the franchise continued to evolve. The 2013 release of Plants vs Zombies 2: It’s About Time solidified the series' dominance on mobile, introducing time-traveling levels and new plant and zombie types—all while maintaining the lighthearted tone fans adored.

Beyond mobile: Expanding the universe

EA had grand plans for the brand beyond mobile. In 2014, Plants vs Zombies: Garden Warfare launched as a third-person shooter on consoles, surprising many with its depth and polish. A sequel followed, and later came Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville, which blended action and open-world elements. While these entries diverged significantly from the original formula, they showcased the versatility of the franchise and introduced PvZ to console audiences.

Meanwhile, Plants vs Zombies 3 has been in development since 2020 and recently saw a major overhaul that temporarily paused its soft launch. Promising a return to classic tower defense gameplay, the game aims to rekindle the magic of the original while bringing the experience up to date with modern expectations.

If you're craving more tower defense action, be sure to explore our list of the [ttpp]—handpicked titles that carry the spirit of strategy and fun forward in the post-PvZ era.